McGaugh said he is looking forward to is budget discussions. Education is his main concern.

“We need to keep our education funding very strong in our state. In years past, they’ve always increased funding, but it’s not been to a level that they had hoped, we’re not fully funding our funding forumulas. So I think that’s really important,” said McGaugh, “I think this year the House projections were about a $60 million increase from last year. That’s a good start. I’d like to see some more funds put into education.”

McGaugh said he would also like to see mental health funds increased and veterans homes fully funded.